Sexual Offences and Abortion — MCQs

Sexual Offences and Abortion Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 201: The PNDT Act was passed in which year?

A. 1995
B. 2000
C. 2003 (Correct Answer)
D. 2008

Explanation: **Explanation:** The **Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act** was originally enacted by the Indian Parliament in **1994** (coming into force in 1996) to prevent female feticide by prohibiting sex selection. However, to address loopholes and include new technologies like pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, a major amendment was passed, and the act was renamed the **PC-PNDT Act in 2003**. In the context of NEET-PG, when "PNDT Act" is asked with these specific options, the year of the major amendment/implementation of the revised act (2003) is the sought-after answer. **Analysis of Options:** * **Option C (2003) - Correct:** This marks the year the Act was significantly amended and renamed to the "Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act." It brought "pre-conception" sex selection under its ambit. * **Option A (1995):** While the original Act was passed in 1994, it was implemented in 1996. 1995 does not represent a significant legislative milestone for this Act. * **Option B (2000):** No major amendments occurred this year; however, the Supreme Court issued directions in 2001 following a PIL that led to the 2003 amendment. * **Option D (2008):** This is irrelevant to the legislative timeline of the PC-PNDT Act. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Purpose:** To prevent "Female Feticide" by banning the disclosure of the fetus's sex. * **Compulsory Registration:** All genetic counseling centers, labs, and ultrasound clinics must be registered. * **Record Keeping:** **Form F** must be filled out for every pregnant woman undergoing an ultrasound. * **Punishment:** For the first conviction, imprisonment up to 3 years and a fine up to ₹50,000. The name of the registered medical practitioner is reported to the State Medical Council for **suspension** (on charges) or **removal** (on conviction) from the register.

Question 202: In a forensic laboratory, a sample is examined under ultraviolet (UV) light and exhibits a blue-white color. What is the most probable content of the sample?

A. Semen (Correct Answer)
B. Urine
C. Pus
D. Leucorrhoea discharge

Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Semen**. This phenomenon is based on the principle of **fluorescence**, which is a primary screening method used in forensic investigations of sexual assault. 1. **Why Semen is Correct:** Semen contains high concentrations of **Flavins** (specifically riboflavin) and **Choline**, which are secreted by the seminal vesicles. When exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light (specifically using a Wood’s lamp at a wavelength of approximately 365 nm), these substances fluoresce, emitting a characteristic **bluish-white** or yellowish-white glow. This is known as the **Fluorescence Test**, a non-destructive preliminary test used to locate dried semen stains on clothing or skin. 2. **Why Other Options are Incorrect:** * **Urine:** While urine can sometimes show a faint fluorescence due to dietary vitamins, it typically appears duller and more yellowish. It does not produce the distinct, intense blue-white glow characteristic of semen. * **Pus & Leucorrhoea:** These biological fluids generally do not contain the specific flavin concentrations required to produce the same intensity of fluorescence. While some bacteria (like *Pseudomonas*) can fluoresce, the specific "blue-white" description in a forensic context is a classic descriptor for semen. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Screening vs. Confirmatory:** UV fluorescence is a **presumptive/screening test** only. It can give false positives with detergents or synthetic fibers. * **Confirmatory Tests for Semen:** The gold standard is the identification of **Spermatozoa** (microscopy). If the sample is aspermic, the **Acid Phosphatase test** (Brentamine test) or detection of **Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA/p30)** is used. * **Barberio’s Test:** Produces yellow needle-shaped crystals (Spermine picrate). * **Florence Test:** Produces dark brown rhombic crystals (Choline periodide).

Question 203: Statutory rape is defined as sexual intercourse by a husband with his wife when she is below what age?

A. 15 years
B. 16 years
C. 17 years
D. 18 years (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **18 years**. This definition is governed by Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and further reinforced by the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. **1. Why 18 years is correct:** In India, the legal age of consent for sexual intercourse is 18 years. Under the IPC, sexual intercourse by a man with his own wife is not considered rape *unless* she is under the age of 18. Even if the marriage is legally valid under personal laws, any sexual act with a minor wife (below 18) constitutes **Statutory Rape**. This threshold was increased from 15 to 18 years following a landmark Supreme Court ruling (Independent Thought vs. Union of India, 2017) to align the IPC with the POCSO Act, which defines any person below 18 as a child. **2. Why other options are incorrect:** * **15 years:** This was the previous exception limit under Section 375 IPC. However, it was struck down as unconstitutional because it failed to protect minor girls from sexual exploitation within marriage. * **16 years:** This was the general age of consent in India many years ago, but it has no current legal standing for defining statutory rape or the age of consent. * **17 years:** This age has no specific legal significance in the context of sexual offences in Indian law. **Clinical Pearls & High-Yield Facts for NEET-PG:** * **POCSO Act (2012):** Gender-neutral; defines a child as anyone under 18. It overrides personal laws regarding the age of consent. * **Medical Examination:** In cases of alleged statutory rape, the doctor must document the age of the victim (using ossification centers like the iliac crest or fusion of the ischial tuberosity) as consent is legally immaterial if the victim is under 18. * **Reporting:** Under POCSO, it is mandatory for a medical professional to report any sexual activity involving a minor to the police; failure to do so is a punishable offence.

Question 204: Masturbation is also known as what?

A. Onanism (Correct Answer)
B. Satyriasis
C. Autierection
D. All of the above

Explanation: **Explanation:** **1. Why Onanism is Correct:** Masturbation, the self-stimulation of the genitals for sexual pleasure or orgasm, is medically and historically referred to as **Onanism**. The term is derived from the biblical figure Onan. In forensic psychiatry and medicine, it is classified as a form of autoerotic activity. While historically viewed through a pathological lens, it is now recognized as a normal physiological behavior. **2. Why the Other Options are Incorrect:** * **Satyriasis (Option B):** This refers to excessive or uncontrollable sexual desire in **males** (the male equivalent of Nymphomania). It describes a state of hypersexuality rather than the act of self-stimulation. * **Autierection (Option C):** This is not a standard medical or forensic term. It appears to be a distractor or a misspelling. The correct term for sexual arousal from one's own body is *Autoeroticism*. * **All of the above (Option D):** Since Satyriasis and Autierection are distinct or incorrect terms, this option is invalid. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Nymphomania:** Excessive sexual desire in females. * **Autoerotic Asphyxia:** A dangerous forensic condition where an individual uses ligatures or chemicals to induce hypoxia to enhance sexual arousal during masturbation; often mistaken for suicide. * **Bestiality:** Sexual intercourse with animals (also known as Sodomy in some legal contexts). * **Tribadism:** A form of lesbian sexual activity (female homosexuality). * **Frotteurism:** A paraphilia involving rubbing one's genitals against a non-consenting person in a crowded place.

Question 205: A 32-year-old housewife was found dead in her bedroom. Examination revealed incisional wounds all over her body, including her genitals. Incisional wounds on genital organs are commonly seen in which of the following scenarios?

A. Accidents
B. Suicides
C. Homicides (Correct Answer)
D. Postmortem artifact

Explanation: **Explanation:** The presence of incisional wounds on the genital organs is a classic hallmark of **Lust Murder (Erotomania)**, which is a form of **homicidal** violence. In these cases, the perpetrator derives sexual gratification from mutilating the victim's primary or secondary sexual characteristics (breasts, genitals, or thighs). These injuries are often associated with "overkill" and are indicative of a sadistic or psychopathic motive. **Analysis of Options:** * **Homicides (Correct):** Genital mutilation is almost exclusively homicidal. It is seen in cases of sexual sadism, "piqueurism" (stabbing/cutting for arousal), or as an act of extreme jealousy and revenge (e.g., "crimes of passion"). * **Accidents:** Accidental injuries to the genitalia are rare and typically involve blunt force (e.g., straddle injuries) rather than deliberate incisional wounds. * **Suicides:** While self-mutilation occurs in certain psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia), it is exceptionally rare for a person to commit suicide by inflicting multiple incisional wounds specifically on the genitals. * **Postmortem Artifacts:** These are changes occurring after death (e.g., animal scavenging or decomposition). While animals may target soft tissues like the genitals, the wounds would be irregular and lack vital reactions (signs of bleeding/inflammation), unlike the incisional wounds described. **NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Lust Murder:** Characterized by postmortem or perimortem mutilation of sexual organs. * **Defense Wounds:** Always look for these on the forearms/palms in homicidal sharp-force injuries. * **Hesitation Cuts:** Multiple superficial, parallel cuts seen in **suicidal** attempts (usually on wrists/neck), never on genitals. * **Piqueurism:** A paraphilia where the offender gains pleasure from stabbing or cutting others; it is a precursor to more violent homicidal acts.

Question 206: What term is used to refer to the active partner in a lesbian sexual relationship?

A. Femme
B. Bugger
C. Catamite
D. Dyke (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** In Forensic Medicine, sexual offences and paraphilias are high-yield topics for NEET-PG. This question focuses on the terminology associated with **Tribadism** (female homosexuality/lesbianism). **1. Why 'Dyke' is Correct:** In a lesbian relationship (Tribadism), the partners are often categorized based on their role during the act. The term **Dyke** (or "Butch") refers to the **active partner** who typically assumes a masculine role. Conversely, the passive partner is referred to as the **Femme**. **2. Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Femme:** This refers to the **passive partner** in a lesbian relationship who typically assumes a feminine role. * **B. Bugger:** This is a legal/forensic term used for the perpetrator of **Sodomy** (anal intercourse), typically referring to the active male partner in male homosexuality. * **C. Catamite:** This refers to the **passive agent** (usually a young boy) in the act of sodomy or male homosexuality. **3. High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Tribadism:** Also known as "Lesbianism" or "Saphism." It involves the rubbing of labia majora or clitoris against each other or the body of the partner. * **Legal Status:** Unlike sodomy (historically under Section 377 IPC), female homosexuality was never specifically penalized under Indian law as it does not involve "carnal intercourse" in the strict legal sense. * **Medical Examination:** In cases of alleged Tribadism, forensic findings are often inconclusive but may include an hypertrophied clitoris or relaxed vaginal orifice in chronic practitioners. * **Important Distinction:** Do not confuse these with **Paederasty**, which is anal intercourse between a man and a young boy (the boy being the catamite).

Question 207: Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) is not indicated in which of the following situations?

A. Case of rape
B. Fetus with a congenital disease
C. Mother at risk of death or grave injury
D. Poverty of the family (Correct Answer)

Explanation: The **Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971** (amended in 2021) outlines specific legal grounds under which a pregnancy can be terminated by a registered medical practitioner. **Explanation of the Correct Option:** **D. Poverty of the family:** Economic status or poverty is **not** a legal indication for MTP in India. While "failure of contraception" is a valid ground for married or unmarried women (socio-medical ground), pure financial hardship does not qualify under the Act. **Explanation of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Case of rape:** This is categorized under **humanitarian grounds**. Pregnancy resulting from sexual assault is presumed to cause "grave injury to the mental health of the woman." * **B. Fetus with a congenital disease:** This falls under **eugenic grounds**. MTP is indicated if there is a substantial risk that the child, if born, would suffer from serious physical or mental abnormalities. * **C. Mother at risk of death or grave injury:** This is the **therapeutic ground**. MTP is permitted to save the life of the pregnant woman or to prevent grave injury to her physical or mental health. **High-Yield NEET-PG Pearls:** 1. **Upper Limit:** The general limit for MTP is **24 weeks** for specific categories (survivors of rape, minors, change in marital status, etc.). 2. **No Limit:** There is no upper gestation limit for termination if a **State Medical Board** diagnoses substantial fetal abnormalities. 3. **Opinion Required:** One doctor's opinion is needed up to 20 weeks; two doctors' opinions are required for 20–24 weeks. 4. **Consent:** Only the **woman’s consent** is required if she is above 18 years of age. If she is a minor or mentally ill, consent of the guardian is mandatory.

Question 208: Which section of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with an act intended to insult the modesty of a woman?

A. Masturbation in a public place
B. Inquest
C. Dowry death
D. Act intended to insult the modesty of a woman (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)**, which specifically addresses any word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman. In Forensic Medicine, this is classified under non-penetrative sexual offenses. It involves the use of intrusive sounds, gestures, or the exhibition of objects to intrude upon a woman's privacy or dignity. **Analysis of Options:** * **A. Masturbation in a public place:** This falls under **Section 294 of the IPC**, which deals with "Obscene acts and songs" performed in public to the annoyance of others. While it insults modesty, it is categorized as public obscenity. * **B. Inquest:** This is a legal inquiry into the cause of death. In India, there are two main types: **Police Inquest (Section 174 CrPC)** and **Magistrate Inquest (Section 176 CrPC)**. It is a procedural legal requirement, not a punitive section for sexual offenses. * **C. Dowry death:** This is governed by **Section 304B of the IPC**. It applies when a woman dies of burns, bodily injury, or unnatural causes within seven years of marriage, following harassment for dowry. **High-Yield Facts for NEET-PG:** * **IPC 354:** Assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty (involves physical contact/force). * **IPC 354A:** Sexual harassment. * **IPC 354C:** Voyeurism (watching or capturing images of a woman in a private act). * **IPC 354D:** Stalking. * **IPC 375/376:** Definition and punishment for Rape. * **Note:** Under the new criminal laws (**Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita - BNS**), Section 509 IPC corresponds to **Section 79 BNS**.

Question 209: The 'Sin of Gomorrah' refers to which sexual act?

A. Anal coitus
B. Oral coitus (Correct Answer)
C. Lesbianism
D. Bestiality

Explanation: **Explanation:** The term **'Sin of Gomorrah'** is a historical and legal synonym for **Oral Coitus** (also known as *Cunnilingus* or *Fellatio*). In forensic medicine, sexual offences are categorized into natural and unnatural offences. Oral coitus is classified as an unnatural sexual offence under the legal framework (historically associated with Section 377 of the IPC in India). The name is derived from the biblical city of Gomorrah, which, along with Sodom, was associated with prohibited sexual practices. **Analysis of Options:** * **Option A: Anal Coitus** – This is referred to as **Sodomy** (derived from the city of Sodom). It involves the insertion of the penis into the anus of another person. * **Option B: Oral Coitus (Correct)** – Specifically designated as the 'Sin of Gomorrah'. * **Option C: Lesbianism** – Also known as **Tribadism** or 'Saphism', it refers to sexual gratification between two females. It is not legally punishable under Section 377 IPC. * **Option D: Bestiality** – This refers to sexual intercourse by a human with an lower animal. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Sodomy:** Look for signs like 'funnel-shaped anus', loss of sphincter tone, and the presence of spermatozoa in anal swabs. * **Bugary:** A legal term often used interchangeably with sodomy or bestiality. * **Section 377 IPC:** While the Supreme Court of India (Navtej Singh Johar case) decriminalized consensual acts between adults, non-consensual acts and bestiality remain punishable. * **Important Sign:** **'Duckbill'** appearance of the anus is a chronic sign of repeated anal penetration.

Question 210: An abortifacient 'stick' used in criminal abortion causes abortion by which mechanism?

A. Uterine contraction (Correct Answer)
B. Stimulation of uterine nerves
C. Uterine infection and necrosis
D. Placental separation

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Correct Answer: A. Uterine contraction** An **abortifacient stick** is a mechanical device used in criminal abortions, typically consisting of a twig from an irritant plant (e.g., *Calotropis*, *Plumbago rosea*, or *Nerium oleander*). These sticks are often coated with an "abortifacient paste" containing irritants like arsenic, lead, or quicklime. When inserted into the cervical canal or between the membranes and the uterine wall, the stick acts as a **foreign body**. The chemical irritants cause local inflammation and irritation of the uterine wall, which triggers **reflex uterine contractions**. These contractions lead to the expulsion of the products of conception. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **B. Stimulation of uterine nerves:** While the stick causes local irritation, the primary physiological mechanism for expulsion is the muscular contraction of the myometrium, not isolated nerve stimulation. * **C. Uterine infection and necrosis:** While infection (sepsis) and necrosis are very common **complications** of using unsterile abortifacient sticks, they are not the intended mechanism by which the abortion is initiated. * **D. Placental separation:** This is usually a secondary effect of uterine contractions or direct mechanical trauma, rather than the primary mechanism of the stick itself. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Common Plants used:** *Calotropis gigantea* (Madar), *Plumbago rosea* (Lal chitra), and *Marking nut* (Semicarpus anacardium). * **Most common cause of death** following the use of an abortifacient stick is **Sepsis** (Septicemia). * **Other causes of death:** Air embolism (if the stick is pushed too far), Hemorrhage, or Peritonitis. * **Legal Aspect:** Criminal abortion is dealt with under **Sections 312-316 of the IPC**. Under Section 312, both the person performing the abortion and the woman (if she consents) are liable.

Practice by Chapter

Sexual Assault Examination

Practice Questions

Rape Investigation

Practice Questions

Child Sexual Abuse

Practice Questions

Collection of Biological Evidence

Practice Questions

DNA Testing in Sexual Offences

Practice Questions

False Allegations

Practice Questions

Medical Termination of Pregnancy

Practice Questions

Criminal Abortion

Practice Questions

Complications of Abortion

Practice Questions

Sexual Perversions

Practice Questions

Legal Aspects of Sexual Offences

Practice Questions

Victim Support and Rehabilitation

Practice Questions

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